Asystasia yellow mosaic virus

Begomovirus asystasiatertii is a viral plant pathogen belonging to the genus Begomovirus within the family Geminiviridae. This pathogen is characterized by a circular single-stranded DNA genome and is primarily responsible for viral diseases in tropical and subtropical flora.

The primary hosts for this virus are plant species within the Acanthaceae family, particularly those of the Asystasia genus, such as Asystasia gangetica. The virus is also known to survive in a variety of weed hosts that act as essential reservoirs, allowing the pathogen to persist even in the absence of primary crops.

Infected plants exhibit distinct symptoms, including yellow mosaic patterns, leaf yellowing (chlorosis), and variegation. Furthermore, severe infections often result in leaf curling, stunting of the plant, and reduced overall vigor, which significantly impacts the development and biomass production of the host species.

The transmission of this virus occurs exclusively through insect vectors, specifically the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. The virus is acquired by the whitefly during feeding and is then transmitted to healthy plants. Climatic factors, such as high temperatures and relative humidity, are critical as they promote rapid whitefly population growth and subsequent disease spread.

Effective management requires an integrated approach to plant health.

• Implement strict quarantine and sanitation measures.
• Control whitefly populations using systematic insecticides.
• Remove infected plants immediately to reduce inoculum sources.
• Maintain clean fields by eliminating host weeds.